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Easy Homemade Whole Wheat Bread: Soft and Hearty Loaf

A freshly baked loaf of whole wheat bread, sliced in half to show the airy crumb structure, resting on a wooden board.
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Bake a soft, hearty loaf of whole wheat bread at home using simple ingredients. This recipe is perfect for beginners and yields delicious bread for sandwiches or toast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 3 cups whole wheat flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for a softer crumb)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let it stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Stir in the honey, oil, and salt into the yeast mixture.
  3. Gradually add the whole wheat flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. If using, add the all-purpose flour now.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  6. Gently punch down the risen dough. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.
  7. Cover the pan loosely and let the dough rise again for 30 to 45 minutes, or until it has crowned about 1 inch above the rim of the pan.
  8. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  9. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
  10. Remove the bread from the pan immediately and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, you can substitute the honey with maple syrup.
  • If you want a crispier crust, place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven while baking.
  • This bread freezes well once completely cooled; slice it first for easy toasting later.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://spoonfulsnap.com/whole-wheat-bread-easy-soft-hearty-loaf/